Srinagar, Aug 23 (KNO): Member of legislative Assembly (MLA) Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq on Saturday described the Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) 2025 as a “historic moment” for Jammu and Kashmir, saying that the participation of athletes from across the country has not only showcased sporting talent but also enhanced the beauty of Dal Lake.
Delivering the welcome address at the closing ceremony, here in the foothills of beautiful Zabarwan at, Sher-e-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) Srinagar, MLA Zadibal as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that he had not been told beforehand that he would be speaking but felt honored to do so.
Quoting the famous Persian verse, “Gar firdaus bar ru-e zamin ast, hamin ast-o hamin ast-o hamin ast”, he said the gathering of athletes against the backdrop of Kashmir’s mountains; snow and Dal waters reflected the Valley’s grandeur.
“When you come here, we locals realise how the outside world sees Kashmir. We have lived around this Dal all our lives, but when you athletes came and enhanced its beauty, you won one thing for sure—our hearts,” Sadiq shared from dice while addressing the gathering.
He added that hosting athletes from 32 states and Union Territories, with around 400 participants in canoeing, rowing and other water sports, was a moment of personal happiness. “As the local MLA of this area, I feel proud that Dal Lake — already world-renowned — today became a canvas where athletes from across India added their own beauty,” he said, thanking the participants for making it memorable.
Calling India’s diversity its strength, he said: “In countries like America or Saudi Arabia, you may hear a few languages, but India is home to 122 languages. From Tamil Nadu to Kerala to Rajasthan, people of different languages and cultures came together here, and that is the true beauty of our nation.”
Sadiq shared that the festival was more than just about medals. “I see this as the beginning of a larger water sports journey. My hope is that one day, a world champion in water sports will emerge from Dal Lake. This festival is the start of that dream, and I congratulate each participant for being part of it,” he said.
He urged athletes to return to Kashmir not just for competitions but also as tourists. “Let Dal Lake be the harbinger of the best champions this country can produce. This time you came as athletes, but next time, please come as tourists — we need you in that role too,” Sadiq said—(KNO)